How to choose the right London dilapidations contractor

When a lease is due to expire, tenants should be proactive to complete any remedial works themselves if they want to stay in control of their budget and not face a surprise bill after moving out. And to complete these works they need a contractor with the experience and expertise in dilapidations to understand the task and complete any works on time and within budget.

What are Dilapidations?

At the end of a commercial lease, the tenant is generally required to restore the property to its previous condition. These obligations are generally outlined in the Schedule of Dilapidations and will cover everything from repairing any wear and tear to structural damage.

London startup office spaces may only need relatively minor dilapidation works, such as removing desks and repairing any worn-out flooring. But warehouses tend to suffer greater wear and tear due to the heavy machinery and storage requirements required by the tenant. 

However the property was used, it will need to be reinstated to its original condition at the end of the lease. This remedial work can be carried out by the tenant before they move out, or the landlord may complete the work after the lease ends and pass on the bill to the tenants.

What are some common dilapidation services?

Flooring repairs

Depending on how the property was used and the level of footfall or machinery involved, flooring may need to be repaired or replaced. This could be concrete flooring, tiles, carpets, or wooden floors - all will be impacted over time.

Restoration of utilities

Electrical and wiring systems, plumbing, and any air conditioning (HVAC) units should be inspected and repaired if required.

Repainting

Paintwork can become faded, chipped, and tired over time and should be refreshed during the dilapidation work to reinstate the property.

Structural repairs

Walls, ceilings, columns, and support beams should be inspected and repaired if required.

External repairs

Damaged roofing and external walls should be repaired if damaged during the lease.

Why hire professional dilapidation contractors?

Dilapidations is a complex area of property law and a period where many disagreements arise between landlords and tenants. Professional dilapidations contractors know the industry and can provide end-to-end solutions to make sure the process is handled with care and attention.

Tenants need a reliable dilapidation contractor that can determine exactly what needs to be rectified from the Schedule of Dilapidations and further surveys and how best to approach these works to complete them on time and within budget.

Landlords need a reputable dilapidation contractor that will respect the property and can project manage the dilapidation works from start to finish for a reasonable fee. They want a contractor with years of experience they can reply upon project after project.

Why do you need a Schedule of Dilapidations?

The Schedule of Dilapidations is the document both parties rely upon at the end of the lease to determine the works required to reinstate the property and is critical to avoiding disputes that can be both costly and time-consuming. Both landlords and tenants should carefully review this document with the help of a dilapidations surveyor to ensure that all parties are clear on their responsibilities.

Why choose Workspace Dilapidations

Workspace Dilapidations is one of the most experienced dilapidation specialists in London, with many years of experience renewing offices and warehouses across the capital to meet the requirements of tenants and landlords. Get in touch today on 07498 727 457 or get a quote online.